All-new BMW 3 Series to be significantly lighter and more efficient

We have caught the all-new BMW 3 Series on test yet again. The car you see here is codenamed G20 and it aims to close the gap with relatively newer competition like the Mercedes C-Class and the Audi A4. 

The current F30 3 Series is lacking behind its rivals in terms of sales and as a result, BMW is now pulling out all the stops to close the gap. The current car was given a mild facelift in 2016 and this all-new model is expected to be revealed later this year. The current 3 is aerodynamically efficient and cleverly packaged, if a little generic in the new BMW range. For the next-gen model, the design will be updated by redefining the overall proportions and giving it a sportier stance. These spy-shots indicate a modest refresh though. 

Even though it will get larger, the next 3 Series is expected to be lighter than the current car. The secret to this is the lightweight CLAR architecture that BMW currently uses for the new 7 Series and 5 Series. CLAR uses a combination of carbon-fibre, aluminium and high-strength steel for improved strength and weight savings in construction.